Ariana Grande Named Very First Honorary Citizen of Manchester

Manchester, England lost 22 beautiful people when a terrorist set off a bomb at Ariana Grande's May 22 concert, but today (June 14), the city gained one more — Ari, herself, has been made Manchester's very first honorary citizen.

The Manchester City Council came together, according to The Guardian, to recognize a "great many selfless acts and demonstrations of community spirit." And Ari's response to the horror — specifically her fundraising for victims' families through the One Love Manchester event — were proof she demonstrates such qualities.

"This seems a fitting moment to update the way we recognize those who make noteworthy contributions to the life and success of our city," Sir Richard Leese said. “We’ve all had cause to be incredibly proud of Manchester and the resilient and compassionate way in which the city, and all those associated with it, have responded to the terrible events of 22 May, with love and courage rather than hatred and fear."

“Ariana Grande exemplified this response," he added. "I think many people would already consider her an honorary Mancunian and we would be delighted, if the council approves the proposal, to make it official.”